Mathematics

List of 14 items.

• Algebra I

  This course examines various properties and operations involving real numbers so that students may develop an understanding of linear equations, systems of linear equations, operations with polynomials and rational expressions, factoring, graphing, radical expressions, and critical problem-solving techniques. 
  
  Prerequisites/Comments - Semester grades of C or higher in 8th-grade math or pre-algebra. Students who do not perform well on the entrance exam and/or have poor elementary school math grades are required to take pre-algebra at Notre Dame during the summer. Student performance in the summer school program will have an impact on acceptance into Notre Dame. (UC “c” Math)

• Honors Algebra I

  This course requires students to apply the concepts of Algebra I at a more advanced level. Students will experience a more rigorous pace as they complete the topics covered in this accelerated curriculum. An introduction to quadratic functions and the quadratic formula is also included. As a mathematics foundation class, Honors Algebra I does not meet UC Honors certification. 
  
  Prerequisites/Comments - Students will be placed in Honors Algebra I based on their results on the entrance exam and their junior high grades and recommendations. (UC “c” Math) 

• Geometry

  This course includes a comprehensive examination of Euclidian plane geometry. Principles of logical reasoning are introduced early so that students may develop their deductive (and inductive) reasoning skills throughout the course. Mathematical proof, as well as the study of various spatial relationships in both two and three dimensions, are introduced and examined. 
  
  Prerequisites/Comments - Completion of Algebra I. (UC “c” Math) 

• Honors Geometry

  This course requires students to apply the concepts of Geometry at a more advanced level. Students will experience a more rigorous pace as they complete the topics covered in this accelerated curriculum. Additional topics in right triangle trigonometry and the complexity of proofs will necessitate a broader range of reasoning skills among students. As a mathematics foundation class, Honors Geometry does not meet UC Honors certification. 
  
  Prerequisites/Comments - Semester grades of B- or higher in Honors Algebra I. Students (including entering freshmen) with semester grades of A- in Algebra I are eligible, but must take a placement exam and obtain department approval. *Also offered as a 6-week summer school course with department chair approval. Incoming freshman are not eligible for the summer course. (UC “c” Math) 

• Algebra II

  This course provides a continuation of the fundamental material started in Algebra I. A broader examination of functions is featured as students work with linear, quadratic, exponential, and logarithmic equations. Other topics include complex numbers and an introduction to cones and conic sections. 
  
  Prerequisites/Comments - Completion of Algebra I and Geometry. (UC “c” Math)

• Honors Algebra II/Trigonometry

  This course requires students to apply the concepts of Algebra II at a more advanced level. Students will experience a more rigorous pace as they complete the topics covered in this accelerated curriculum. Additional topics include an extensive examination of trigonometric functions and their many applications. All students must have a TI-84 graphing calculator. As a mathematics foundation class, Honors Algebra II does not meet the UC Honors certification.
  
  Prerequisites/Comments - Semester grades of B- or higher in Honors Geometry. Students (including entering freshmen) with semester grades of A- in Geometry are eligible but must take a placement exam and obtain department approval. (UC “c” Math)

• Precalculus

  This elective course continues to develop significant topics from Algebra II such as linear, quadratic, exponential, and logarithmic functions. Trigonometric functions and their graphs are also explored in great detail. Fundamental topics in statistics and probability are introduced and examined. Students must have a TI-84 graphing calculator.
  
  Prerequisites/Comments - Semester grades of C- or higher in either Algebra II or Honors Algebra II with Trigonometry. (UC “c” Math) 

• Honors Precalculus

  This elective course requires students to apply the concepts of Precalculus at a more advanced level. Students will experience a more rigorous pace as they complete the topics covered in this accelerated curriculum. Additional topics include parametric equations, polar coordinates, and limits. All students must have a TI-84 graphing calculator. 
  
  Prerequisites/Comments - Semester grades of B- or higher in Honors Algebra II/Trigonometry. Students with semester grades of A- in Algebra II are eligible but must take a placement exam and obtain department approval. In addition, these students must complete a summer course in Trigonometry. *Also offered as a 6-week summer school course for rising juniors and seniors who have earned A's in Honors Algebra II and obtain department chair approval. (UC “c” Math-UC Honors)

• Statistics with Probability

  This elective course provides students with some of the basic skills needed for collecting, organizing, and interpreting various types of data. Topics include averages and variation, linear regression and correlation, probability theory, and binomial and normal distributions. Real-life applications are emphasized throughout the course. All students must have a TI-84 graphing calculator. 
  
  Prerequisites/Comments - Completion of Algebra II or Honors Algebra II/Trigonometry. (UC “c” Math) 

• Financial Algebra

  Financial Algebra is an application-based math elective course that introduces students to the importance of financial literacy. The course is designed to develop a strong foundation in logical thinking and problem solving that will enable students to make informed decisions regarding matters of money and finance in their daily lives. Financial Algebra tackles real-world topics such as banking, budgeting, consumer credit, investments, taxes, as well as the important concept of stewardship. Concepts from Algebra 1, Algebra 2, and Geometry are incorporated while exploring practical and finance applications. Financial Algebra is designed as an option for the 4th-level math course for seniors or as an additional math elective course for 11th and 12th-grade students. Note: This course is not approved by NCAA as a core course for NCAA Clearinghouse Athletic Eligibility. 
  
  Prerequisites/Comments - Semester grades of C or higher in Algebra II. (UC “c” Math) 

• Calculus

  This elective course examines some of the essential theories behind calculus but places much greater emphasis on the manipulation of complex expressions and limits. Techniques of differentiation and integration are studied at length. Applications of calculus to science, economics, and business are also explored. All students must have a TI- 84 graphing calculator. 
  
  Prerequisites/Comments - Semester grades of B- or higher in Precalculus; C- or higher in Honors Precalculus. (UC “c” Math) 

• AP Calculus AB

  This elective course emphasizes a multi-representational approach to calculus with concepts and exercises expressed geometrically, numerically, analytically, verbally, and in written form. Technology is used regularly by students to reinforce essential concepts, confirm written work, implement experimentation, and to assist in interpreting results. A substantial amount of time (at least one hour per day) will be needed outside of class as students cover the topics of this course. All students must have a TI-84 graphing calculator. All students must take the AP Calculus AB exam in the spring. There is a fee for the exam. 
  
  Prerequisites/Comments - Semester grades of B- or higher in Honors Precalculus. Note: Students with a semester grade of B- must also obtain department approval. (UC “c” Math-UC AP/Honors) 

• AP Calculus BC

  This elective course includes all the topics of AP Calculus AB plus additional topics in differential and integral calculus (including parametric, polar, and vector functions) as well as series. Algebraic, numerical, and graphical representations are emphasized throughout the course. A substantial amount of time (at least one hour per day) will be needed outside of class as students cover the topics of this course. All students must have a TI-84 graphing calculator. All students must take the AP Calculus BC exam in the spring. There is a fee for the exam. 
  
  Prerequisites/Comments - Semester grades of B- or higher in AP Calculus AB. Note: Students with a semester grade of B- must also obtain department approval. (UC “c” Math-UC AP/Honors) 

• AP Statistics

  This elective course is designed to introduce students to the main topics of statistics: exploring data, sampling and experimentation, anticipating patterns, and statistical inference. Within this course, students will be able to evaluate the data that they are exposed to every day and start collecting their own data. All students must have a TI-84 graphing calculator. All students must take the attendant AP Statistics exam given in May. There is a fee for the exam. 
  
  Prerequisites/Comments - Semester grades of B- or higher in Honors Algebra II/Trigonometry. Note: Students enrolled in Algebra II must earn semester grades of B or higher. (UC “ c” Math-UC AP/Honors)